Now that you're in high school, you want your smile to look its best, especially when it comes time for pictures. You might not realize this, but what you do during the day has a lot to do with how healthy your teeth are. You might also not realize that it takes more than just brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day to keep your teeth strong and healthy—although that's an important part of your dental care. In addition to your twice-a-year visits to the dentist, there are a few other steps you can take to ensure healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.

Watch What You Chew On

If you're in the habit of chewing on things while you're in class, you need to put an end to that habit. Chewing on things like pencils, pens, or even your fingernails can severely damage your teeth. First, those things can be harboring a lot of germs, which can lead to dental infections. Second, the pencils and pens can poke into your gums or the inside of your cheeks and cause injuries. Finally, those hard objects you're chewing on can actually chip or crack your teeth. Avoid damaged teeth by keeping those things out of your mouth.

Drink Plenty of Water During the Day

If you spend most of the day drinking sweetened juices or sodas, you could be jeopardizing your teeth. Instead of loading up on the juices and sodas, start drinking plenty of water during the day. Water will help wash the germs and bacteria out of your mouth, and it will help increase your production of saliva, which is actually good for your mouth. On top of that, you'll stay hydrated, which is good for your overall health.

Brush Your Teeth Naturally While You're at School

If you're not brushing your teeth while you're at school, you should be. That doesn't mean you need to bring a toothbrush and toothpaste to school with you each day. You can brush your teeth naturally just by snacking on fresh vegetables like carrots and celery. The crunchiness of the vegetables will remove plaque from the surface of your teeth and help get rid of other particles that are caught between your teeth. Keep your teeth strong and healthy by bringing a few healthy snacks to school with you each day. If your school has a salad bar option during lunch, choose from that line for an added health benefit for your teeth.

Don't let your high school years be the time when you develop dental problems. Use the tips provided here to keep your teeth strong and healthy. Contact a dental office like Cross Creek Family Dental for additional advice.